Separation required between two-unit structures with carports between

[Big Mac]

Given - Multiple Two-unit Two-story dwellings (let's say ten structures total), approximately 16-20' apart. Carports are proposed between each of the two-unit structures. Said carports fill all space between dwelling-unit structures except for a distance of about 6" between each side of the carport and the adjacent two-unit structures. So for example, if there was 20' between two-unit dwelling structures, the carports would take up 19' of that 20' total space.

Question, would the code require one-hour fire-resistive construction on the side walls of the carports and the dwelling units given their relative distance to assumed property lines? If not, why not?

 

[fatboy]

Yes, R302.1 and Table R302.1.1, it is still an exterior "wall". 1-HR less than 5'.

 

[AegisFPE]

What if the units were all connected by adjoining garages? The separation between the garage and the adjacent unit would be evaluated, and then townhome-style separation would be provided between the garages.

The exterior wall (provided there's no openings to the carport) may satisfy the code requirement between a garage and dwelling unit. Then provide say a block wall between the two carports such that if one carport collapses the structure on the other side still stands.

Would the carports require sprinklers?

 

[Builder Bob]

The carport could be built with one hour rated walls adjacent to each other and still meet the requirements of the IRC for firewall construction.

and my vote is not required to have sprinklers if carports are detached from the townhomes......